Cracking the College Code: A Practical Guide to Making the Most of the First Year College Experience

"A 'how-to' book, full of valuable insights and practical advice for making a successful transition. Highly recommended." Betty McLaughlin, CBS Mullingar and Public Relations Officer, Institute of Guidance Counsellors. Cracking the College Code is the 'must have' essential guide for all students, parents and guardians embarking on a journey into third level. Written in straightforward language, key topics include: > Making informed choices > Preparing for change > Getting to know how the third level system works > What students face in the first weeks and months at college > Where and when to look for help > The challenges of living at home or away www.crackingthecollegecode.ie

About the Author :
Catherine O'Connor, MA (Ed) Education Consultant, works as an education specialist in student recruitment at Trinity College Dublin and has over twenty years' experience in education including the design and delivery of diploma, degree and master's programmes at both Trinity College and Dublin City University. Following a career in financial services, the study of drama led her to a Training and Development career where she worked in the community motivating the long term unemployed to return to study and work, after the last recession. Catherine has also researched and published within the areas of education and technology enhanced learning.

Review :
"A brilliant book and what every student, parent/guardian needs to read on entry to third level education. Informative, realistic and comprehensive. This book kept me interested every step of the way. Superbly written and something I will refer to time and time again." Nora Irwin: Parent and former Director, National Parents Council Post Primary and Executive Committee Member, COMPASS (Co-operation of Minority Religions & Protestant Parents Association) "Cracking the College Code has a wealth of information for both aspiring and current third level students and their parents alike. It is very accessible, well researched and comprehensive. It gives a valuable insight into how the college system really works - a wonderful resource." Dr Veronica O'Dwyer: Lecturer of Optometry, Dublin Institute of Technology "I wish this book was around when I was starting out. It opens prospective students' minds to everything you don't think of about third level. A must-read for anyone thinking about going to college." Jenny Stokes: A recent college graduate "This book has a broad appeal and is a timely and practical guide for both students and parents. It will guide students through their first year at college exploring a world where independent learning is not just encouraged but expected. It will provide parents with an insight into how the system works and the challenges faced by first year students, challenges which can often overwhelm. It will be of interest to guidance counsellors and those working with sixth years as they prepare students to make a smooth transition between two very different systems. Worthwhile, realistic and practical, it will be of immense value to students, parents and student support staff." Robert Dunne: Principal, Loreto Abbey Secondary School, Dalkey, Co Dublin "Any book with the capacity to enhance an individual's experience of college and simultaneously improve their education and professional development has to be welcomed by students and parents alike. There is no secret method or magic formula, just a direct and pragmatic introduction to college life and a set of guidelines for making the transition from second level efficiently, effectively and quickly. The book accomplishes this with warmth, integrity and common sense. It will also be welcomed by policy makers, leaders and professional educators who will see students prepared to engage more speedily with the challenges, facilities and benefits not to mention privileges that a college education can bring. Employers and professional bodies will also welcome the fact that more effective and creative graduates will become available to sustain the growth, well-being and success of a nation. The small incremental effect of a book like this in the hands of students and their parents, could contribute greatly to many professional careers and lives and hence to society. Catherine O'Connor is eminently qualified in terms of her achievements within all the main aspects of the academic world, research, teaching, pastoral care and management. Add to that, her own business experience, both self-employed and across many organisations. Also add, her hands-on experience as a parent and finally her absolute passion for education and you have the author of this book." Alan Mullally, former Director of I.S. programmes and elected member of Council at Trinity College Dublin, following a series of senior management roles and directorships in industry. He has served as external examiner at many third level colleges and continues his commitment to education through Oscail, Dublin City University.